Delicious and Nutritious: Introducing the Unique Clam-like Seafood, “Ngán”
Ngán, a clam-like seafood belonging to the mollusk family, is commonly found in both saltwater and brackish waters. At first glance, it is easy to mistake ngán for another similar-looking seafood called “nga”. However, upon closer inspection, ngán is significantly larger and boasts superior flavor and nutritional value. This delicacy is packed with essential nutrients such as protid, glucid, and lipid, along with a host of vitamins and minerals vital for overall health.
Furthermore, certain compounds found in ngán are believed to stimulate the release of sex hormones, making it a favorite among men and earning it a reputation as an aphrodisiac, often likened to “wine that delights both husband and wife, with energy lasting all day.”
One of the most unique and famous specialties of Quảng Ninh is “rượu ngán,” a liquor made from ngán. This distinctive beverage is hard to come by anywhere else, and its preparation requires a strict, secret process. The key step is skillfully removing the ngán’s shell to extract its siphon intact, without any breakage or loss. These siphons are then placed in a glass, and a substantial quantity is needed to make a sufficient amount of liquor. Depending on the desired volume of liquor, the right proportion of siphons is used, and then liquor is slowly poured in and stirred.
This specialty liquor is not only delicious but also believed to have health benefits, especially for men.
Harvesting ngán is no easy feat; it demands the patience and expertise of experienced fishermen. Local fishermen share that the ideal seasons for catching ngán are summer and autumn, when they don’t bury themselves too deep in the sand. In contrast, during winter, they tend to hide more discreetly, making them harder to find, which drives up their price.
The best places to find abundant and high-quality ngán in Quảng Ninh are the beaches of Quan Lạn and Vân Đồn.
The creative chefs of Quảng Ninh have crafted countless mouthwatering dishes featuring ngán, ranging from simple preparations that highlight its natural sweetness to more intricate and unique creations.
Aside from rượu ngán, visitors always relish dishes that showcase the pure, unadulterated flavor of ngán. Two such popular choices are grilled ngán and steamed ngán. To preserve the natural sweetness of the ngán, chefs tie the shells together before grilling or steaming to prevent them from opening and losing their precious juices.
For steamed ngán, it’s crucial not to overcook it to retain its distinctive flavor. Typically, grilled or steamed ngán is served with a spicy sauce made from chili paste, salt, pepper, and a splash of fresh lemon juice, accompanied by various herbs.
The grilled ngán, in particular, is renowned for its rich, buttery taste that has earned the praise of countless diners.
The culinary delights of Quảng Ninh extend beyond these dishes to include a refined salad, or “gỏi ngán.” For this dish, fresh ngán meat is carefully removed from the shell, cleaned, and finely chopped before being mixed with shredded banana flowers and a unique blend of spices. To enhance the appeal of this salad, fresh shrimp and roasted peanuts are added, along with finely chopped herbs. This salad has a refreshing, sweet and sour taste that pairs exceptionally well with beer or liquor, making it an unforgettable culinary experience.
Another excellent choice for health-conscious individuals is ngán porridge. After blanching the ngán in boiling water and removing the meat, it is stir-fried with fragrant fried onions and seasoned to perfection. The ngán is then added to a pot of well-cooked porridge, resulting in a hot, soft, and smooth porridge that is naturally sweet and nourishing.
The versatility of ngán in Quảng Ninh’s cuisine is further showcased in dishes like ngán steamed with lemongrass and chili, ngán steamed with onions, and ngán noodle soup. Each of these dishes has its distinct flavor, but they all retain the natural sweetness that makes this seafood so special.
Given its superior nutritional value and irresistible taste, ngán commands a high price, typically around 400,000 VND per kilogram. To truly appreciate the quality and unique flavor of ngán, it is best to purchase and consume it in Quảng Ninh, where the freshest ngán is sourced and prepared with exquisite refinement. Ngán is not just a delicacy but also embodies the essence of the region’s cuisine and culture, leaving a lasting impression on all who visit this enchanting land.
The Power of Jackfruit Seeds: Unlocking 3 Amazing Benefits for Your Health
The jackfruit seed is a beloved rustic delicacy, renowned for its nutty flavor and abundant nutritional benefits. This humble treat is more than just a tasty snack; it boasts a wealth of health-boosting properties that elevate it to superfood status. With its unique blend of nutrients and wholesome goodness, the jackfruit seed is a true gift of nature, offering a delicious way to nourish and nurture your body.
“Bananas: A Nutritional Powerhouse Fruit, But A Cautionary Tale for Those With These 3 Conditions”
“Bananas are a nutritious and affordable fruit, but they may not be suitable for everyone. With their high potassium and vitamin content, bananas offer an array of health benefits. However, for some individuals, particularly those with certain medical conditions, the consumption of bananas may need to be monitored or avoided altogether.”
3 Easy-to-Miss “Smart Switches” for Children’s Wellbeing, Especially Birth Weight
Obesity is a pressing issue that can have a significant impact on a child’s IQ.
“Summer Vacation: Tweaking Your Child’s Meal Plan for Healthy Development”
Summer is a wonderful time for children to explore and embark on adventures, and it also presents an opportunity for mothers to tweak their children’s nutritional intake and ensure a balanced diet.
“Supercharge” Your Child’s Height This Summer: Follow This One Rule and Watch Them Grow 8-10cm Every Year
“Unveiling the 5 Unassuming Principles for Robust Bone Development: Simple Yet Impactful Ways to Foster Bone Health.”
